Italy's coach hunt heats up as Malagò confirms Guardiola talks
Inside the sleek headquarters of the Italian Football Federation, chairman Giovanni Malagò leaned over a conference table at 12:17, his voice steady as he announced that talks had begun with Spanish tactician Pep Guardiola about the vacant Azzurri coach role, a move sparked by Italy’s search for a successor after missing the World Cup.
Malagò was quick to underline that the Spanish coach’s potential arrival is far from settled. He said the talks with Guardiola are ongoing but not a finished business, and that discussions with other candidates have already started.
Speculation about Italy’s interest in Guardiola has been circulating for weeks, intensifying after the federation dismissed Gennaro Gattuso following the nation’s failure to qualify for the World Cup.
On Monday, the Italian federation reportedly held its first conversation with the successful Manchester City manager. In an interview with Cronache di spogliatoio, Malagò confirmed that Guardiola’s name is indeed on the shortlist.
The chairman also remarked that the federation faces financial constraints, describing the need to “tighten the belt” as an understatement. He added that exceptions exist, citing Guardiola as a prominent example.
Malagò stressed the importance of initiating dialogue and keeping the contact “alive and warm” with the Spanish tactician, signalling a proactive approach in the coaching search.
He clarified that this is not a lack of respect for other hopefuls, mentioning Andrea Pirlo and Roberto Mancini among the names being considered. The federation is looking for a specific profile that these candidates fit.
Guardiola has also been linked with the Netherlands, another nation currently seeking a new head coach. The trophy‑winning Spaniard has previously expressed a desire to manage a national side and left the door open for the Dutch team.
Nevertheless, Guardiola recently indicated he does not expect to take up a new role within two weeks or a month after his departure from Manchester City, suggesting a measured timeline for any potential appointment.